Three Steps Forward–New in 2011
The Vermont Women’s Fund has awarded a grant to the Rutland Region Workforce Investment Board (RRWIB) to create a special program in support of young women, age 15 – 25, who are in transition from adolescence to adulthood, and who require support in that process. The new and innovative program, “Three Steps Forward” is being offered in collaboration with Stafford Technical Center. The three steps involve personal assessment and life/career planning; education, training and skill development; and work experience. The educational centerpiece of the program is a newly created “Tech Forward” class offered at Stafford Technical Center. It will explore the high-tech computer applications that are reshaping all sectors of our economy.
“Our ultimate goal is to help young women achieve personal and financial independence. The foundation to that goal is built on education, especially in computer technology and applications that are changing the way businesses are managed, people work and personal support networks are developed. Competence in computer technology is a baseline skill in today’s world,” says Nancy Burzon, Executive Director of the RRWIB.
Lynn Bondurant is the Program Director for Three Steps Forward. In her prior experience as the Director of The Smokey House Center, she worked with young people who were at risk of dropping out of school and/or making poor life choices. Many of the young women we are working with in this program have indeed dropped out of the public educational system and are now trying to complete their education. They have the talent and capability to succeed, but now must overcome additional challenges to complete their education. The steering committee for the program is the newly formed “Young Women’s Collaborative”, a committee comprised of several organizations that offer programs and support aimed at this targeted population.
For More Information: Contact Program Director, Lynn Bondurant
- 802 293-5089
- lbond@vermontel.net
